The DEPI and Minister for Environment Lisa Neville were contacted for comment.

A government spokesman responded on their behalf, saying a regulator spent a year assessing 22 objections about potential damage to flora and fauna, possible water contamination and impacts on property values.

When asked how environmental impacts would be monitored, he said there would be a rehabilitation bond to cover the cost of site remediation.

The work plan will also address issues such as buffer zones, native vegetation offsets, fire risk management, water and soil management, dust, noise, and hours of operation.

A letter from the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources detailing the reasons for the approval has also been seen by The Courier.

It says “environmental impacts will be assessed prior to work being approved”.